What was your style when you were 17? What is it like now?
My style used to be very Abercrombie & Fitch. Today I shop more at boutiques. I love to be dressy casual.

What kind of clique were you in back then? Now?
My friends and I were really active. We were in the leadership organizations, choir, FCA, etc. We led everything. I still have the same friends.

What were your hobbies back then? Now?
I was really into choir. Now, I'm lucky if I have any free time to have hobbies!

What rumors were people spreading about you then? Now?
It was more gossip about who I was dating. Now, I don't even care what they're saying.

What nicknames did you have back then? Now?
I was the manager of the basketball team, and the coach called me "Star." Today, I guess my nickname is "Miss America"!

Who was your best friend? Are they still your best friend now?
I met my best friend, Koby Harrington, in first grade. We would put on plays in our backyards. We're still friends now.

What did you do for fun? Now?
I had my close group of friends, and we would go out to eat, see movies, etc. Today, I'm so busy with Miss America duties that I hardly have time for myself. If we're in a city long enough, we'll see some sights. I have fun at my appearances, though. It's great being there.

What advice did your parents give you when you were 17? Now?
My parents were always trusting and raised me to make the right decisions. I can't think of one specific thing that they said, because it was all important.

What did you worry about back then? Now?
There was always drama among my friends, so I used to worry about that. Now I worry what life will be like after Miss America. How will my life go back to being normal after this?

What was your high school boyfriend like? Describe the guy you'd want to date now.
My high school boyfriend was a football player who went to the rival school across town. He was really quiet. Now, I'm dating a football player who is really outgoing!

Who was your idol back then? Now?
My mom and her friends have always been my idol. They balance life so well. I think having a family is so important.

Who were your celebrity crushes? Now?
Paul Walker and Brad Pitt — and they still are!

Head to the next page to read Lauren's letter to her 17-year-old self!

Dear 17-year-old self,

Some things aren't worth getting upset over. I used to think that the small, negative things were such a big deal. But when I look back on everything I was so worried about, it was so small in the grand scheme of things.